The Odisha cabinet on Monday approved a landmark scheme called 'Land Bank for Hospitality Infrastructure' to fast-track tourism-led economic growth by creating a ready pool of land for hotels, resorts, and allied facilities across the state.
Key Details of the Scheme
State chief secretary Anu Garg announced that approximately 5,500 acres of government and private land parcels will be identified and developed across key tourism destinations. These include Chilika, Konark, Puri (Shamuka), Dhauli, Hirakud, Satkosia, Similipal, Bhitarkanika, Daringbadi, and the Buddhist circuit, among others. Additional locations may be added based on tourism potential and specific requirements.
The scheme will be implemented over five years, from 2026-27 to 2030-31, with an annual outlay of Rs 300 crore, totaling an estimated investment of Rs 1,500 crore.
Addressing Key Bottlenecks
Officials stated that the initiative aims to tackle a major obstacle in tourism development: the lack of contiguous, encroachment-free, and investment-ready land parcels. The cabinet approved the creation of a dedicated land bank under the tourism department to bridge this gap. The tourism department will serve as the nodal agency for implementation and coordination with departments such as general administration, IDCO, OTDC, revenue, and disaster management, as per a government statement.
Garg explained that the proposed land bank will enable destination-level master planning and provide investors with infrastructure-ready land, reducing project gestation time and improving the ease of doing business. It is expected to attract investments in hotels, resorts, convention centres, eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and other recreational facilities.
Vision for Economic Growth
The state government views tourism as a key driver of economic growth, employment, and regional development. Under its 'Viksit Odisha 2036 and 2047' vision, Odisha aims to position itself among leading eco- and cultural tourism destinations in India and Asia.
The scheme is designed as a statewide intervention to ensure balanced regional development by promoting emerging destinations and creating economic opportunities in rural and remote areas. It is expected to generate employment for local communities, artisans, service providers, and youth.
Expected Impact
Officials believe the initiative will significantly boost private investment, increase tourist footfall, expand quality accommodation capacity, and strengthen the local economy, helping Odisha emerge as a premier tourism destination.
